What they're saying about transportation plan

Here's how local officials and legislators reacted to the statewide transportation plan released Monday:

Here's how local officials and legislators reacted to the statewide transportation plan released Monday:

Jon Mitchell, New Bedford mayor: "My reaction is very positive. We are one step closer to the reality of South Coast Rail, but we still have a long way to go. It's very important for SouthCoast to remain united behind Deval Patrick's efforts.

"People have to remain open to new revenue proposals. I think folks from this region might be willing to accept new revenue proposals if it meant SouthCoast rail was able to materialize."

Rep. William Straus, D-New Bedford, chairman of Legislature's Joint Committee on Transportation: "I'm assuming the public is in agreement that we have to do something. I think the public is more accepting of revenue that is raised in a way that relates to transportation use and only goes to transportation needs.

"There are key regional programs in different parts of the state that are needed for our transportation system. We will be raising money and spending money for projects all across the state. Everybody has a stake in this."

Sen. Mark Montigny, D-New Bedford: "We start out today with good news. This is something worth celebrating. But this is still the beginning of what will be a very painful discussion. Once we get over our initial glee, there will be very significant criticism from those who will be paying. All new revenues are painful.

"There needs to be a firm plan, full financing, with no wiggle room for a future governor to back out of it."

Rep. Antonio Cabral, D-New Bedford: "If people clearly understand where the money will be spent, I think a good number of people understand what's needed and will be supportive.

"I'm happy that on the menu of proposed new revenues is a green fee that I've been proposing since 2006 and is on that menu exactly as I proposed it. A green fee is a solution that raises revenue directly related to transportation. It benefits the environment while providing the revenue we need to invest in transportation." (A green fee would be paid when registering a vehicle in Massachusetts and the amount would vary depending on the average amount of carbon output that type of vehicle emits.)

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.